William Paul Young

THIS SUNDAY: William Paul Young, author of The Shack, will be speaking in all morning services and returning at 6:00 p.m. for an open forum to answer questions about the book. It is estimated that 12 to 15 million copies of The Shack have been sold around the world. Many have been drawn into a closer relationship with Jesus and found healing from the wounds of life. We are anticipating a wonderful experience of growing in our relationship with Jesus and with one another. This is a perfect opportunity to invite a friend to join you at church.

There are a number of opportunities in front of us to serve our community and represent Jesus to others. Consider volunteering for the Oak Park outreach every third Saturday of the month, serving at the VIP dinner where we love the homeless in our community the opening night of the Singing Christmas Tree, or assisting with “Port in the Storm,” our winter shelter program for the homeless December 19 through 25. Also, volunteering to help with guest services during the Singing Christmas Tree performances is another way to touch our community in a positive, life-giving way.

Matthew 25:40 The King (Jesus) will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Pastor Rick

Out of Africa

COMING THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7: OUT OF AFRICA
Jesus came to reach the entire world and we have the unique privilege of participating in spreading His love and truth as far and wide as we possibly can. We will be sharing our recent experience in Kenya through photos, video, and word. We were there because of you and the incredible investment our CCC family has made in missions through the years. Our involvement in missions and giving to others is one of the pillars that sustains and empowers us as a family of believers. Your personal involvement in missions and giving to others either is or will be one of the pillars that sustains and empowers you and your household in the days ahead. We are going to have a great day growing together!

COMING NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14: WILLIAM PAUL YOUNG
Author of The Shack, Paul Young will be speaking in our morning services and then providing a great opportunity to answer your questions in an evening session beginning at 6:00 p.m. Invite your friends and family to join you for this inspirational day of learning how much God loves you and them.

John 10:27-28 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.

Pastor Rick

Side by Side

We are entering the home stretch of our 21 day Transformation Challenge! I am hearing numbers of incredible stories of what the Lord is doing in individual lives. There is no doubt that we open ourselves up to more of God's presence and power when we focus our attention on Him through fasting and prayer. So . . . seven days to go. It's not too late to join in this journey of faith.

There are tools on our website to access for the outreach on January 25 with W. Paul Young, author of The Shack. You can email invitations to your friends as well as watch some clips of an interview that Paul did with the 700 Club. We are going to have a great day! Also, W. Paul Young will be at Borders on Fair Oaks Blvd. on Saturday, January 24 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. for a book signing opportunity.

These are exciting times and I am looking forward to seeing you Sunday when we complete the story of Nehemiah and the miracle of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. So much can be accomplished when we join with one another and work together for common goals. "Side By Side" is the focus of Sunday's message.

"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another" (Proverbs 27:17).

Together . . . Continuing the Dream,

Pastor Rick

Laying a Strong Foundation for 2009

Join us for a wonderful conclusion to 2008! Beginning at 7pm on New Year's Eve, it is our privilege to host the Annie Moses Band in concert. This promises to be one of the most amazing musical experiences we will ever have. I'm looking forward to seeing you there.

Sunday we begin 2009 with a study from the book of Nehemiah. It is very timely and will lay a strong foundation to build our year upon. This may be our finest moment in life as we influence our family and friends to consider placing their faith in Jesus and receive His love and grace. I am excited about the potential we have to impact our community and other nations of the world.

William Paul Young, author of The Shack, will be our guest on January 25. He will share his life story in the morning services and then we will have a special event that evening at 6pm where Paul will interact with questions regarding the message of The Shack. It will be a significant opportunity to invite people to come to church with us.


Isaiah 52:7 "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!"

Good times ahead!

Together . . . Continuing the Dream,

Pastor Rick